Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/13061
LONGBEACHMAGAZINE.COM 73 there wasn't an area or department that I hadn't been responsible for somewhere in our system," she said. "I had found my niche. I felt that this was a way that I could contribute to the hospital's overall mission and to the community." Hendel currently lives in Orange with her life partner and their two children. Technology plays an important part in helping her to compartmentalize her busy life. "Mobile communication devices allow me to function in both areas of my life," she said. "I'm able to relax at home and enjoy my family life without worrying about what's going on at work, even though the hospital is a 24/7 operation." The urge to excel that has propelled her to the pinnacle of a 54-acre hospital campus that employs 6,200 people was evident throughout Hendel's high school years. "I was on the volleyball, tennis and softball teams, and competed in track and field," she said. "I grew up playing sports, and today I still enjoy outdoor activity with my children. We hike, ride bikes, play tennis and generally lead a very active, sports-minded life." The hospital has been serving the city for more than 50 years at its present location. The medical center now includes a new campus for Miller Children's Hospital, which opened in 2009. "I think of them as 'Siamese twins'," said Hendel, referring to the two hospitals. Far from spending the day in the executive offices, Hendel can frequently be seen walking the halls of the hospital, BlackBerry in hand. "I enjoy interacting with our staff," she said. "I Alamitos Bay Landing 190 N. Marina Dr. LB, CA (562) 342-9411 www.mckennasonthebay.com McKenna's on the Bay Steak, Seafood Sushi & oyster bar Offering New Breakfast Specials Sat & Sun 10:30AM-2pm Weekly Specials Monday $1 Oysters & $7 Martinis Tuesday Half Off Sushi & All Night Happy Hour Wednesday Half off Bottles of Wine Thursday All Night Happy Hour Happy Hour M-f 3-7pm Eggs Benedict, McKenna's Skillet, French Toast, Omlettes, Lochs & Bagels, Drink Specials & More! also enjoy meeting patients and their families. When I hear that our rehabilitation facility gave a loved one back the ability to walk after a stroke, it re-enforces the reason why I love this job. When a patient's family says that one of our physicians helped guide them through life-and-death decisions, I'm filled with pride." It's all about balance with Hendel. "They say it takes a village, and I believe that. I have great support in both areas of my life. The hospital staff is close-knit and works together as a team. So does the support group that helps with my children during the day when I'm at work. I think the kids benefit from the exposure to many people and experiences that they might not have if I were home all the time." There is a place where work and family meet, though. "We love Long Beach," Hendel said. "We may live in Orange, but we spend leisure time in Long Beach whenever we can. Long Beach has a lot to offer in the way of family fun. I especially love the golf courses in this city. I play whenever I can." With all the activity in her life, Hendel still carves out a niche for some quiet time every day. "I enjoy reading," she said. "It's a peaceful way to spend some quiet hours and re-group after a busy day." Although she was appointed CEO of the medical center only 18 months ago, she's only just begun. "It doesn't seem like I've been here 21 years," she said. "I feel like I'm just hitting my stride." n "When a patient's family says that one of our physicians helped guide them through life- and-death decisions, I'm filled with pride."—Diana Hendel